Hand And Foot Patents (Class 280/233)
  • Patent number: 11945541
    Abstract: An electric tricycle including a frame having a front end coupled to a steering assembly, the steering assembly having a front wheel, and a rear end coupled to a rear wheel assembly, the rear wheel assembly having two rear wheels. At least two pedals rotatably coupled to the rear wheel assembly and configured to move in a reciprocating motion, the at least two pedals having an engaged configuration wherein the at least two pedals are engaged with the two rear wheels and configured to rotate the two rear wheels in a first direction, and a disengaged configuration wherein each of the at least two pedals is disengaged from the two rear wheels and aligned with another of the at least two pedals. An electric motor electrically coupled to a battery and configured to engage with the two rear wheels and to rotate the two rear wheels in the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Inventors: Jonathan D. Roberts, Ryan J. Hamblin
  • Patent number: 10124856
    Abstract: A rotational torque surge brake assembly mounted to a bicycle aerobar that provides an ergonomic brake design allowing riders utilizing aerobars to brake using a natural supination motion of the forearm while remaining in the tucked, aerodynamic racing position. Braking is activated by supine radial rotation of an actuating handle grip (6) mounted rotatably about a base mounting member (7) that is itself affixed to an aerobar (9) mounted on the bicycle handlebar. The bicycle's brake cable is attached to the handle grip (6) in such a manner that radial motion of the handle (6) results in axial motion of the brake cable (10), relative to the axis of the bicycle frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Inventor: Jeffrey John Cederstrom
  • Patent number: 9371107
    Abstract: A stepper comprising: a direction controller having a front wheel set and a steering wheel connected to the front wheel set; a rear wheel transmission having a gear transmission and a rear wheel shaft, the gear transmission having an active gear, a chain and a passive gear, the active gear connected to the passive gear via the chain, the rear wheel shaft having a rear wheel set and connected to the passive gear; a supporting shaft connected to the direction controller and the rear wheel transmission; and a foot-hand swinging set having a pedal and a joystick having a handle, the pedal mounted on two sides of the supporting shaft, one end of the pedal connected to the active gear, the joystick connected to another end of the pedal. The present invention can be propelled by only single leg, and can be rehabilitation and locomotion apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignees: CHANG GUNG UNIVERSITY, CHANG GUNG MEMORIAL HOSPITAL, LINKOU
    Inventors: Shu-Chun Huang, May-Kuen Wong
  • Publication number: 20150108734
    Abstract: Disclosed is a hand-foot compound bicycle with a double ratchet, which comprises a handle assembly which comprises a crank handle for generating handle power, and an upper gear to be rotated by rotation of the crank handle; a pedal assembly which comprises a pedal for generating pedal power, and transfers both or either one of the handle power and the pedal power to a rear wheel; and a power transfer unit which comprises a first power transfer gear corresponding to the upper gear, and a second power transfer gear for transferring the handle power from the first power transfer gear to the pedal assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicants: Hak Yoon Kim, INDUSTRY-ACADEMIC COOPERATION FOUNDATION, HANSEO UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: Hak Yoon KIM
  • Patent number: 8939457
    Abstract: A vehicle is provided that includes a frame having a drive member supported for rotation thereon. A handlebar is supported for pivotal movement relative to the frame. A drive mechanism is provided on the frame that is configured to rotate the drive member in a first rotational direction when the handlebar is pivoted in either a first direction using a push-stroke or a second direction using a pull-stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventor: Ralph P. Poor
  • Patent number: 8888116
    Abstract: A suspension device for a handcycle has a first frame member and a second frame member pivotally coupled to the first frame member. A shock absorber is disposed between the first and second frame members. A lever assembly is disposed between the first and second frame members to transfer motion of the second frame member into the shock absorber. The lever assembly includes a lever pivotally coupled to the first frame member. The lever includes first and second arms coupled at an angle which allows motion of the second frame member to be directed into the shock absorber. The lever assembly is configured to transfer a vertical motion of the second frame member into non-vertical motion directed into the shock absorber. The suspension device further includes a third frame member. The first and second frame members are rotationally coupled to the third frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Lasher Sport, LLC.
    Inventor: William J. Lasher, III
  • Patent number: 8876135
    Abstract: There is disclosed a combined-drive bicycle which can increase a driving speed and the beneficial effects of exercise and simultaneously to give fun to a rider. The combined-drive bicycle includes a handle assembly configured to steer a front wheel, the handle assembly comprising a crank handle to generate a handle motive force and a first gear rotated by the rotation of the crank handle, a pedal assembly configured to transmit the handle motive force and a pedal motive force generated by pedals to a rear wheel selectively or simultaneously, and a motive force transmission part to transmit the handle motive force to the pedal assembly, irrelevant to the steering of the handle assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Hakyoon Kim
  • Patent number: 8857838
    Abstract: A dual drive system for a non-motorized vehicle comprising a first drive unit disposed on a vehicle frame, wherein the first drive unit has a rotary action and is operatively associated with a first wheel assembly for turning a wheel; and, a second drive unit disposed on the vehicle frame, wherein the second drive unit has a lever action and is operatively associated with the first wheel assembly for turning the wheel. The first drive unit and the second drive unit are independently operable for turning the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Zike, LLC
    Inventors: Nathan Scolari, George Reiter
  • Publication number: 20140125032
    Abstract: An independent shaft driven front wheel drive transmission (20) powers the front wheel of a velocipede by rotating a pair of coextensive handles (23 L R). Standard foot pedals power a rear shaft drive assembly (17) or a standard chain drive (FIG. 9). Forward rotation of the handles sets in motion the shaft driver assembly (10). The drive shaft (35) rotates and transfers energy to the multi-geared front hub assembly (14) that drives the front wheel forward. Triple tree brackets (73), position and support the front forks and steer tube. The steer tube (24) in combination with the triple tree brackets attaches the front wheel shaft drive system to the head tube of the velocipede. The modified front fork tube (53 R) houses the drive shaft (35) and bearings, (56 a b). The fork tube also has an attached modified drop out (77) that has clearance for rotatable bottom gear (51).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Inventor: KENNETH DALTON HAAN
  • Patent number: 8702114
    Abstract: A vehicle with front and rear steering is disclosed. The vehicle can be a cycle. The cycle includes a front wheel steered by a front hand-steering mechanism, and two back wheels steered by a back hand-steering mechanism. The back wheels are dual inclined casters with full rotational movement. A drive train forward of the front wheel drives the front wheel, while a rider is inclined in a seat in a recumbent orientation. The front and rear steering provides unlimited maneuverability and turning capabilities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventors: Tyler Hadzicki, Joseph Hadzicki
  • Patent number: 8534690
    Abstract: A bicycle. A front bicycle wheel and rear bicycle wheel are connected to a bicycle frame. A steerer tube controls the left and right motion of the front bicycle wheel. A drive sprocket drives the rear bicycle wheel. Two hand grippable pivotally connected handles are each connected via a handle steering linkage connection to the steerer tube. They are both also connected via a second handle drive linkage to the drive sprocket. The pivoting of the handles in an approximately horizontal plane controls the left and right motion of the front bicycle wheel. The pivoting of the handles in an approximately vertical plane controls the rotation of the drive sprocket and drives the bicycle forward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: David D. Price
  • Patent number: 8439379
    Abstract: A bicycle wherein the front wheel can be both steered and powered by reciprocal movement of the handle bars in a forward and rear direction. The drive system for the front wheel comprises a first linkage comprising two arms, one of which is a pivoting arm, and a second linkage comprising three arms, two of which are pivoting arms. The two arm linkage system is the primary driver in the sense of rotating a drive sprocket between two over center positions. The three arm linkage system, while also driving the drive sprocket, serves the primary function of moving the two arm linkage system over the two center positions, as the handle bars are reciprocated in forward and rear directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Mark T. Schanzer
  • Patent number: 8328213
    Abstract: A vehicle powered by an operator's arms and/or legs utilizes a pivot column for propulsion. An upper propulsion member (handlebar) is provided on the upper end of the pivot column. A lower propulsion member (foot bar) is provided on the lower end of the pivot column. A drive propulsion system is provided between the pivot column bottom and a rotational drive gear set. The drive propulsion system engaged with said at least one rotational drive gear, the propulsion system engages with and provides propulsion to an upper portion of the rotational drive gear during a counterclockwise motion of the pivot column and engages with and provides propulsion to a lower portion of the rotational drive gear during a clockwise motion of the pivot column. The rotational drive gear spins freely when subjected to the reverse motion. Incorporating two gears with opposing propulsion drives provides forward motion throughout the entire reciprocating stroke of the pivot column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Crawford
  • Patent number: 8181977
    Abstract: A bicycle arm-drive apparatus includes a stationary mounting structure, an arm drive input mechanism, a drive motion transmission mechanism, and a plurality of connectors. One end of the mounting structure attaches to the front-center portion of the bicycle. The arm drive input mechanism includes a pair of control arms that pivotally attach to the other end of the mounting structure and generally extend rearward and outward from there. The operator grips each control arm, inputting arm power by driving them fore-and-aft. The drive motion transmission mechanism includes a pair of connecting rod assemblies running down opposite sides of the bicycle frame between the control arms and bicycle pedals. A plurality of connectors link the connecting rod assemblies to the pedals and control arms in order to transmit control arm fore-and-aft movement via the connecting rod assemblies to the pedals to enable the arm power to assist with bicycle pedaling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Christopher B. Bartlett
  • Publication number: 20120104723
    Abstract: There is disclosed a combined-drive bicycle which can increase a driving speed and the beneficial effects of exercise and simultaneously to give fun to a rider. The combined-drive bicycle includes a handle assembly configured to steer a front wheel, the handle assembly comprising a crank handle to generate a handle motive force and a first gear rotated by the rotation of the crank handle, a pedal assembly configured to transmit the handle motive force and a pedal motive force generated by pedals to a rear wheel selectively or simultaneously, and a motive force transmission part to transmit the handle motive force to the pedal assembly, irrelevant to the steering of the handle assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: Hakyoon Kim
  • Patent number: 8056916
    Abstract: Drive systems configured to combine arm power with leg power are disclosed. A drive system may comprise an arm power headset comprising: a joint assembly configured to provide forward and aft movement; and a mounting bracket coupled to the joint assembly and configured to align the joint assembly. The drive system may further comprise: a push/pull rod configured to convert forward and aft arm movement into rotary movement, the push/pull rod coupling the arm power headset to a first drive assembly; the first drive assembly comprising a first drive sprocket coupled to a first crank shaft; a second drive assembly adjacent the first drive assembly; and a linking device linking the second drive assembly with the first drive assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventor: Louis Hudgin
  • Publication number: 20110241305
    Abstract: A hand/foot powered bicycle includes a pedal power mechanism as a power source for driving the bicycle. A user can pedal a first pedal and a second pedal with both feet to drive a front sprocket. Via a first chain, the front sprocket drives and rotates the rear wheel. The hand/foot powered bicycle further includes a handlebar power mechanism having a handlebar structure as a power source for driving the bicycle. The hand/foot powered bicycle further includes a power transmission assembly for transmitting power to the front sprocket of the bicycle to drive and rotate the front sprocket. By means of continuously rotating the handlebar structure, the power transmission assembly is driven to transmit power to the front sprocket to drive and rotate the rear wheel via the first chain. A user can drive and make the hand/foot powered bicycle advance with hands and/or feet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: Ching-Tien PI
  • Patent number: 7896375
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an arm and leg powered bicycle, comprising handle levers, a front wheel, a rear wheel, a handle shaft, supporting frames, pedals, a pedal shaft, front and rear sprockets and a chain belt, wherein the bicycle further includes an operating means for vertically rotating the handle levers, said member consisting of a handle rotation shaft, an operating rod or rods and a handle rotation shaft support, and a means for transferring the rotating force of the handle levers to a pedal shaft, said means consisting of a crank shaft, a rotating shaft, a flexible joint, a driving gear and a driven gear mounted on a pedal shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventor: Kie-Ho Cynn
  • Patent number: 7891686
    Abstract: A vehicle powered by an operator's arms and/or legs utilizes a pivot column for propulsion. An upper propulsion member (handlebar) is provided on the upper end of the pivot column. A lower propulsion member (foot bar) is provided on the lower end of the pivot column. A drive propulsion system is provided between the pivot column bottom and a rotational drive gear set. The drive propulsion system engaged with said at least one rotational drive gear, the propulsion system engages with and provides propulsion to an upper portion of the rotational drive gear during a counterclockwise motion of the pivot column and engages with and provides propulsion to a lower portion of the rotational drive gear during a clockwise motion of the pivot column. The rotational drive gear spins freely when subjected to the reverse motion. Incorporating two gears with opposing propulsion drives provides forward motion throughout the entire reciprocating stroke of the pivot column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Robert Crawford
  • Patent number: 7841611
    Abstract: The transportation apparatus includes a frame a seat portion which slides on the frame. A leg support pivots about the seat portion. At least one middle leg and at least one rear leg depends downwardly from the seat portion. At least one middle wheel is connected to the middle leg and at least one rear wheel is connected to the rear leg. The middle wheel and rear wheel define a middle and rear rotation axes, respectively. At least one front wheel is connected to the leg support. The middle leg is movable to adjust the vertical position of the middle wheel, and the rear leg is movable to adjust the vertical position of the rear wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Inventor: Volodymyr Ivanchenko
  • Patent number: 7823897
    Abstract: A drive system for a work vehicle comprises a control unit adapted to: monitor output of a speed ratio setting input device for a speed ratio setting request signal and output of a drive-request input device for a FWD-only request signal, determine from the speed ratio setting request signal if a requested speed ratio setting represented thereby is one of at least one predetermined speed ratio setting among a plurality of speed ratio settings possible for the work vehicle upon receipt of the FWD-only request signal, and, if so, output at least one control signal engaging a FWD-only mode enabling FWD operation of the work vehicle but disabling RWD operation of the work vehicle. An associated method is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Andrew Wayne Kelly, Brent Allen Smith, Scott Joseph Breiner, Craig Ronald Timmerman
  • Patent number: 7802804
    Abstract: The wobble bearing axle assembly is used for engaging the upper body of a person for use in human powered vehicles and exercise equipment. The wobble bearing assembly converts linear input force derived by the operator into rotational force, which is directed toward the forward propulsion of a wheel. The wobble bearing axle assembly comprises a wobble bearing, a wobble axle, at least two engagement members a first arm and a second arm. The wobble bearing is disposed upon the oblique retainer of the wobble axle. The oblique retainer of the wobble axle is angled offset from the axis of the wobble axle Y. The engaging members are rotatably affixed with the first and second arms through pins which is longitudinally disposed through complementary orifices through the first and second arms and the engaging members respectively. In some preferred embodiments additional bearings are engaged with the pedals powered by the legs of the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Inventor: John Lawson
  • Patent number: 7641211
    Abstract: A transportation apparatus includes a backrest and leg support pivotably connected to a seat portion. The seat portion is slidably connected to first and second spaced apart slide rails. Each slide rail includes a plurality of telescoping members. At least one middle leg and at least one rear leg depends downwardly from the seat portion. At least one middle wheel is connected to the middle leg and at least one rear wheel is connected to the rear leg. The middle wheel and rear wheel define a middle and rear rotation axes, respectively. At least one front wheel is operatively connected to the leg support. The middle leg is movable to adjust the vertical position of the middle wheel, and the rear leg is movable to adjust the vertical position of the rear wheel. The plurality of telescoping members slide the seat portion in a substantially horizontal direction in relation to the rear rotation axis or the middle rotation axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Inventor: Volodymyr Ivanchenko
  • Publication number: 20090309326
    Abstract: A cycle has an automatic steering wheel; a frame, the front portion of which the automatic steering wheel is perpendicularly rotatably connected to; a pair of handle bars, the central portions of which are rotatably hinged to both sides of the upper part of the front portion of the frame; a front crank horizontally passing through the central portion of the frame and rotatably connected to the frame, a crank gear being fixedly connected to said front crank; a rear crank horizontally passing through the rear portion of the frame and rotatably connected to the frame; a pair of connecting rods, each of which has one end rotatably connected to the lower end of the corresponding handle bar and the other end rotatably hinged to the front crank; a pair of pedals, each of which has a front end inserted into the front crank and a rear end inserted into the rear crank so that the pedals are rotatably connected between the front and rear cranks; a rear wheel rotatably connected to the rear portion of the frame and provi
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: Jin Man Choi
  • Publication number: 20090283981
    Abstract: Disclosed is an overdrive system for a bicycle, which increases the speed through use of a combination of a plurality of sprockets and ratchet wheels, and which drives with less power where a user steps on a pedal of a drive lever using the principle of a lever as overdrive generating means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventor: Ik-Byung JANG
  • Publication number: 20080246246
    Abstract: A propulsion and exercise device for attaching to a conventional wheelchair having: at least one drive wheel operably interposed between the rear set of wheelchair wheels. A telescoping mast may connect the drive wheel axle to pedals to permit the pedals to be selectively moved from a stowed position to an extended position for use. Power is transmitted from the pedals to the drive wheel through a chain drive that passes over idler sprockets that maintain the chain length during adjustment of the telescoping mast.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: PAT PENDING MARKETING, INC.
    Inventors: Rollin C. Dix, Rahuljit Pal
  • Patent number: 7413206
    Abstract: A drive system for use with a bicycle includes first and second gears arranged so that the second gear is rotatably driven responsive to the first gear. A freewheel is operatively coupled to the second gear, and a drive sprocket is operatively coupled to the freewheel. The freewheel causes the drive sprocket to be rotatably driven only when the first gear is driven in either the first direction or the second direction. A driven sprocket may be mounted coaxially and in driving relationship with a wheel of the bicycle. A chain may be used for linking the drive sprocket and the driven sprocket. First and second levers extend from a support bar, which is coaxially mounted to the first gear. Reciprocal movement of the first and second levers causes the first gear to rotate, and correspondingly causes the second gear to rotate, thereby effecting rotation in the drive sprocket and the driven sprocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Inventors: Victor Medina Peña, Ricardo Medina Peña
  • Patent number: 7293790
    Abstract: The invention relates with the omni-directional toy vehicle that can move in all directions of forward, backward, rotational, left and right movement by driving manually the omni-directional wheels installed at the vehicle and combining their rotational directions. The vehicle characterized by comprising a frame composing the body of the vehicle, at least three rotating axles which are installed at the lower part of the frame with a rotatable mechanism, at least three omni-directional wheels which are connected to the axles, at least three driving element which are connected to the axles and drive the omni-directional wheels and a seat located at the upper part of the frame. The vehicle can be driven and steered simultaneously by means of driving combinations of each omni-directional wheel without any additional steering element and make an operator be interested in the manual operation of omni-directional wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Bstech Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Kyungseok Byun, Kyuman Choi, Seungyoup Lee
  • Patent number: 7140626
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus including a seatless frame for simulating running without the stress producing loads associated with each stride. The exercise apparatus has at least one front wheel and at least one rear wheel, both of which are rotationally connected to the frame. The exercise apparatus includes two independent means for propelling the apparatus along a path of travel. The first means simulates a running motion via a pair of pedals that operate in an arcuate pattern. The second means for moving the apparatus along the path of travel includes a pair of hand actuated levers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Inventor: Peter W. Keay
  • Patent number: 7066480
    Abstract: The steering system according to the invention provides a means of coordinating the movements of the two steering handles on a machine such as light tricycle type vehicles propelled by a pedal (5) and propulsion arms (6). The steering system comprises two handles (8) installed free to pivot, each handle being installed at the end of one of the propulsion arms (6) and a first cable (10) being fixed to the bottom of each handle. The second end is fixed to the steering shaft (9) of the tricycle. A second cable connects the two handles to each other to coordinate the movement of the handles (8). Application to leisure tricycles, light vehicles in general, indoor sports and medical re-education apparatus and static game facilities for leisure parks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Sport System Engineering
    Inventors: Rodolphe Brichet, Olivier Bonneau
  • Patent number: 7021639
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a bicycle of the type driven by operation of a handle. According to the present invention, a shaft rod of the bicycle is installed with a hinge so as to enable the handle to rotate forward or backward. The handle is bent by a constant angle on the basis of the hinge, thereby being divided into both upper and lower portions on the basis of the hinge. The handle is formed at the lower portion thereof with an elongated guide bore, and a roller is inserted inside the guide bore so as to move upward and downward along the guide bore. The roller is connected to the upper end of a rod, which is installed so as to move upward and downward in a rectilinear course according to pulling and pushing operation of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventor: Hun Geun Park
  • Patent number: 6688623
    Abstract: The present invention is a drive mechanism for human powered vehicles. In general, the invention is a unique drive mechanism for any human powered vehicle, such as a bicycle or a human powered boat. The mechanism enables the operator to efficiently apply both arm and leg power for motive force while maintaining the ability to steer using the arms. The mechanism couples the arm and leg motion in a harmonious union similar to a running motion but can be easily uncoupled should the operator prefer to power the vehicle only with leg power. The mechanism enables motive power to be applied with both the up and down stroke of either or both arms. Specifically the drive mechanism has oscillatable handlebars and a linkage connectable to the drive of the human powered vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Robert L. Yunaska
  • Patent number: 6572129
    Abstract: A recumbent tricycle which includes a propulsion system which includes a combination of foot and arm power for propulsion. Pedals are operated with the rider's legs. Handles are also connected to the drive mechanism, with the handles pulled back and pushed forward to add to propulsive power. The handles are also connected through a tie rod arrangement to the front wheels such that the wheels may be turned so that the vehicle can be steered by moving the handles toward one side or the other. Preferably, two large front wheels similar to conventional bicycle wheels are provided in front, with a single smaller diameter but wider driven rear wheel. The rear wheel is mounted on a sub-frame pivotally secured to the vehicle frame and supported on a shock absorber. Brake and gear change mechanism controllers are mounted on the handles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Inventor: Gregory Bean
  • Patent number: 6540648
    Abstract: An improved exerciser bike includes a frame having a front wheel and a handle for steering the front wheel, and includes two rear wheel axles. Two rear wheels are rotatably secured to the rear wheel axles. Each of the foot supports has a middle portion pivotally coupled to the frame. Two chains are engaged on the ratchet sprocket wheels. Each chain is first connected to a wire element which winds on a pulley and then connected to a resilient element and finally secured to an extension rod of the frame. So, the resilient element's length can be designed to be longer to magnify the restoring force and prolong the life of the resilient element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventor: Yu-Chao Chao
  • Publication number: 20020007978
    Abstract: An all terrain vehicle comprises an engine that powers a chain or belt operated final drive. The final drive comprises an drive sprocket and a driven sprocket. The driven sprocket is capable of pivotal movement relative to the engine. In one arrangement, the driven sprocket is mounted to a rear portion of a swing arm. The swing arm is pivotally mounted to a frame assembly of the vehicle. A guide member is mounted to the swing arm and is pivotally mounted to the frame assembly. The guide member is laterally displaced from bearings used to journal the swing arm for pivotal movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventor: Takehito Suzuki
  • Patent number: 6155584
    Abstract: A man-propelled vehicle includes a frame with a seat, two pedals, and two hand-operated handles, each linked with the frame by actuating devices capable of communicating to them an alternating translational motion. The actuating devices are coupled with unidirectional rotary transmission devices on a drive shaft by links adapted to drive in rotation the rotary transmission device when the pedals and operating handles are actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventor: Etienne Dallet
  • Patent number: 6032969
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus with a transmission which may be selectively adjusted to provide either arm exercises, leg pedaling exercises or stepping exercises, said apparatus formed with a frame; a seat on said frame; a pair of rear drive wheels rotatably mounted on a rear shaft at the rear of said frame; with the transmission having three parts; a first transmission stage mounted on said fame coupled to transmit power to said rear drive wheels by means of a sprocket chain transmitting force between a sprocket on a freewheel supporting axle and a sprocket on the rear shaft. A second transmission stage is formed by a sprocket on a crankshaft supported on a bracket swingable on said freewheel supporting axle with a sprocket chain extending from a sprocket on the crankshaft to the sprocket wheel on the freewheel axle. A third transmission stage is formed by a spring and sprocket chain trained over the freewheel sprocket, with the free ends of the spring and chain anchored to a swinging pedal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventors: David Kurgan, Alexander Kurgan
  • Patent number: 6010433
    Abstract: An exerciser bike includes a frame having a front wheel and a handle for steering the front wheel, and includes two rear wheel axles. Two rear wheels are rotatably secured to the rear wheel axles by two ratchet sprocket wheels. Two foot supports each has a middle portion pivotally coupled to the frame. Two chains are engaged on the ratchet sprocket wheels and each has one end secured to the frame and the other end secured to the foot support, for allowing the rear wheels and the ratchet sprocket wheels to be driven by the foot supports via the chains. The exerciser bike may be turned with the rear wheels when the rear wheels are actuated with different speeds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Inventor: Chao-Yu Chao
  • Patent number: 5908199
    Abstract: An arm propulsion system for mounting on a bicycle includes a first crank and a second crank mounted on opposite ends of a connection and rotation pin. These cranks are mounted in a specular position with respect to one another. Hand-grips are connected with the cranks. The hand-grips lie on a common axis and are rotatable about the common axis, and this common axis is parallel to the axis of the connection and rotation pin. To apply propulsion force to the bicycle front tire, a first sprocket wheel, located coaxial with the connection and rotation pin, is connected with a second sprocket wheel by a first transmission mechanism (e.g., a chain). A third sprocket wheel, located coaxial with the second sprocket wheel, connects with the front wheel of the bicycle by a second transmission mechanism. A connection element is provided on the connection and rotation pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Inventor: Fabrizio Rigato
  • Patent number: 5833256
    Abstract: A user powered vehicle which can be propelled upon an ice surface by applying force in repetitive power stroke movements in a rowing manner. The vehicle includes a main framework (10), a forward facing seat (64), a plurality of attached ice runners (14, 16) adapted to support the vehicle for efficient forward movement upon the operating surface, a movable propulsion wheel assembly (18) including at least one propulsion wheel (38) adapted to provide forward thrust when engaged with the operating surface, a rowing assembly (74) and footrest assembly (66) operable for converting rowing motions into propulsion force, and means (86) for transfer of weight from ice runners to propulsion wheel for increased traction during rowing power strokes and for re-transfer of weight to ice runners for improved efficiency between power strokes. The vehicle is adaptable for use on snow or land by replacing ice runners with skis or wheels respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventor: Roger C. Gilmore
  • Patent number: 5829772
    Abstract: A ride-on, human-powered vehicle a frame, which is integrally formed with the body of the vehicle. A front axle includes spaced-apart, steerable axle elements located on either side of the front end of the frame, each steerable axle element having a wheel rotatably mounted thereon A steering/power mechanism is mounted on the frame for oscillating motion relative to the frame that includes a steering shaft for steering the front wheels having a handle bar located at the upper end thereof. Foot rests are located at the lower end of the steering/power mechanism. A chain extends from the steering/power mechanism to the rear axle. A combination of the handle bar and the foot rests allow the rider to power the vehicle through the use of arms and legs simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Columbia-Inland Corporation
    Inventor: Micheal D. Jones
  • Patent number: 5820151
    Abstract: A bicycle front wheel frame assembly includes a horizontal tubular member mounted in front of a head tube, a vertical rod assembly mounted between the tubular member and a front fork, and a horizontal rod assembly mounted between the tubular member and the head tube. Both lengths of the vertical rod assembly and the horizontal rod assembly are adjustable so as to adjust distances between the handles and the cyclist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventors: Chin Ming Cheng, Wei Ling Ou
  • Patent number: 5816598
    Abstract: A two-wheel drive hand and foot powered bicycle in accordance with the present invention includes a rear wheel that is driven by a foot pedal via a chain and derailleur mechanism. A front wheel is rotatably mounted to the bottom portions of first and second yokes. The first yoke is pivotally mounted to the front portion of the bicycle frame and the upper portion of the second yoke is rigidly mounted to the first yoke by a steering coupling member, wherein a steering torque applied to second yoke pivots the first yoke to turn the front wheel. A hand crank assembly is rotatably mounted to the steering coupling member and the upper portion of the second yoke. Power generated by operation of the hand crank assembly is transmitted by a chain to a sprocket assembly mounted to the front wheel. The operator may selectively power the front wheel, the rear wheel, or both wheels simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Wayne S. Dodakian
  • Patent number: 5785336
    Abstract: A bicycle with apparatus which enables the arms and/or legs of a cyclist to supply rotational force to the rear wheel to enhance acceleration and ease hill climbing is disclosed. The apparatus enables upon repeatedly pivoting the bicycle handle back-and-forth to supply rotational power to the rear wheel to enhance forward speed, especially in combination with the rotational force input by the pedals. An acceleration gear apparatus is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Inventor: Ik-Byong Jang
  • Patent number: 5700228
    Abstract: A gyrocycle (10) comprising an elongated main body (12). A pair of front wings (14) extend from the main body (12). A pair of rear wings (16) extend from the main body (12). A front axle (18) extends transversely through the main body (12) and through the front wings (14). A rear axle (20) extends transversely through the main body (12) and through the rear wings (16). A pair of front wheels (22) are provided. Each front wheel (22) is mounted in a rotatable manner to one end of the front axle (18), so that the front wheels (22) can rest upon a flat horizontal surface (24). A pair of rear wheels (26) are also provided. Each rear wheels (20) is mounted in a rotatable manner to one end of the rear axle (20), so that the rear wheels (26) can rest upon the flat horizontal surface (24). A chair (28) is mounted onto the main body (12) adjacent the rear wings (16), so that a person (30) can sit in the chair (28).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Inventor: Miro James
  • Patent number: 5601301
    Abstract: A muscle-powered drive mechanism for vehicles or other equipment with at least one drive component, the drive movement of which is adapted to be transmitted to a drive shaft using a movement transmission system. By means of the mechanism, a user can selectively exercise a variety of muscles in the arms, legs or other parts of the body (e.g., back or abdominal regions), separately or together in many harmonious ways. For example, the system includes a set backrest drive mechanism whose drive movement is generated by a movement of a seat backrest relative to a seat surface independently of the movement of the seat surface. The system also includes a pair a freewheels mounted to a drive shaft. The movement of a mounted crank in either a forward or a rearward direction generations a single directional rotational movement of the shaft by means of one of the freewheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Inventor: Qingshan Liu
  • Patent number: 5542689
    Abstract: A front wheel drive system for a bicycle which can be installed on a bicycle to drive the front wheel by rocking the handlebars back and forth. A chain positioning and support mechanism is attached to the handlebar of a bicycle. The handle bar is attached to a rotatable outer sleeve of a handle bar stem. A rocker switch in the outer sleeve selectively locks the handle bar relative to the stem or allows the handle bar to rotate about the stem. A chain attached to the chain positioning and support mechanism engages a freewheel attached to the front hub of a bicycle and terminates in a spring connecting back to the chain positioning and support mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Inventor: Wayne C. Chalfant
  • Patent number: 5511810
    Abstract: A hand driving device for a bicycle, the bicycle having a frame including an inclined frame member and a steering head. The hand driving device has a pair of spaced apart hand levers pivotally connected to a pair of pivoted levers, which are in turn pivotally connected to a pair of pedal connecting rods. Each pedal connecting rod is pivotally supported on the axle of a bicycle pedal. A pedal connecting rod fastener is passed over and along each pedal connecting rod toward the end of the pedal connecting rod for enclosing the axle of the bicycle pedal in an arcuate notch defined the end of the rod. The pivoted levers of the hand driving device are each pivotally connected to a T-shaped bracket, the T-shaped bracket in turn being connected to a pair of fastening plates mounted on the inclined frame member and steering head of the bicycle frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventor: Kun-Yuan Tong
  • Patent number: 5431614
    Abstract: An exercise device for mounting on a conventional bicycle provides upper body exercise, the device having an auxiliary handlebar that rotates about a shaft on which is mounted a auxiliary power unit. Movement of the auxiliary handlebar in a rotational motion against resistive force provides exercise to the upper body of the user. The movement of the auxiliary handlebar by the user additionally provides auxiliary force by which the front wheel of the conventional bicycle can be driven in conjunction with or independently of the rear wheel drive mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1995
    Inventor: Richard C. Jeranson
  • Patent number: 5429379
    Abstract: A land vehicle or bicycle (110) is disclosed having a front wheel drive which includes an impulse drive mechanism and shock driver. The front wheel drive mechanism (140) includes a handle bar/driver mechanism (151) attached to an impulse drive mechanism (166). The bicycle (110) may be used such that the handle bar/driver mechanism (151) is fixed for use as a conventional bicycle or may be released by a twist grip (159) or thumb release (193) so that the bicycle may be driven by a drive mechanism (140). The shock drive mechanism (FIGS. 14-16) provides forward propulsion force due to the compression (308) and recoil (304) forces of a shock absorber (144) when the bicycle (110) encounters a bump, curb or other obstacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1995
    Inventor: Nikita Grigoriev